In an effort to promote safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, parties who have hearings in Division P (Probate Division) are encouraged to email exhibits to the Court no later than five calendar days prior to the hearing date. The email address is ProbateExhibits@kern.courts.ca.gov. This is for Probate matters only. If you are appearing remotely please go to Remote Court Hearings and under the section Metro Justice Building, select Division P. Please arrive to the remote hearing 30 minutes early.
Attending Probate Hearings During COVID-19
Probate Court has original jurisdiction over actions concerning the issuance of marriage licenses, the estate of a deceased person, the will of an individual, the estate of a minor or incapacitated person, trusts, and involuntary commitments. Most probate matters are handled without a jury trial, but Probate Court does have the authority to conduct a jury trial.
The probate examiners are paralegals employed by the court to review all papers filed with the probate court.To find out if an action has been filed, you may:
To determine whether or not your case is recommended for approval on the next day's calendar, visit the case search portal page after noon on the business day prior to the hearing to find out the recommendation for that case.
If your case is not recommended for approval and you do not appear in person or by "Court Call" at the time set for the hearing, your petition may be dismissed or taken off calendar as the court may choose.
If you cannot afford to pay court fees, you may apply for a fee waiver. You will be asked to provide information regarding your financial status which will be reviewed by a judge.
Fee Waiver form packets are available at no cost in the Probate Department or download the form here
The Family Mediation and Investigations conducts background investigations for conservatorships and certain guardianship matters.